Intricate and awe-inspiring weaving and dying technique produce a pattern that has attracted buyers for over 1,000 years. Interestingly, the ikat technique seems to have developed on its own in such far flung places as Malaysia and Central America.
In 1898 Scottish textile manufacturer Alexander Morton formulated a concept: set up a rug weaving business in the West that used the time-tested, hand-knotting techniques of the East, but employed exciting new design concepts in keeping with La Belle Epoch creativity and other current design trends. It also claims lineage from the late 19th Century Arts and Crafts Movement which favored traditional British design opposed to neo-classicism in Britain and America.
He began operations in the town of Killybegs on the west coast of Ireland, County Donegal.
We moderns enjoy thousands of years of art and decor history. Sometimes when you are out of ideas, the best place to turn is to the taste-setters of the past. You know you have a rich source if work endures down through the ages.
After hours of preparation in the Center's Outdoor Artifact Garden, the fashion show had to be quickly moved into the Addison/Dicus showroom. All was not lost. In fact it turned out to be a great event.
Traditionally weavers in Turkey used left over wool to spin a thick, tough yarn. They used it to weave rugs called Oushaks which they marketed to anyone who could afford them.
Interior designer Jose Cabrera brought this to our attention.
In the New York Times, Jonah Leher posted an article as a preview of his upcoming book exploring the the mysteries of creativity. He lists the below 10 suggestions to get the muse back on your side.
According to Mike Bailey at Addison Dicus, you have three chores to assure that you rug becomes an heirloom.
1. Vacuum sensibly.
2. Deal with stains immediately.
3. Have your rug professionally cleaned when you visually determine it needs it.